Government Affairs

VASP Program Highlighted during International
Export Certification Meeting

In February, 20 out of 21 member countries of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) met to discuss export certification use in various markets around the world. The APEC members at the workshop, including Canada, China, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and the U.S., spoke extensively about when other tools can be used, including system audits or third-party experts.

One presentation was a "case study" on the VASP program, showing how it was developed in cooperation with industry and government to leverage existing industry procedures. A number of recommendations came from the meeting, such as better communication to reduce ambiguity and greater reference to international standards. There was also considerable discussion about how electronic certification was an important tool to increase efficiency and reduce fraud.

APEC members will discuss the next steps, which could be the basis for additional action at an international level through Codex. The Codex Committee on Import/Export Certification and Inspections Systems also met this month to discuss finalizing principles for conducting foreign audits/inspections (much like we experienced with the European Food & Veterinary Office) as well as national food control systems.